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Should You Clear a Main Sewer Line Clog Yourself?

Nov 15 2022
Orange sewage pipes

When the problem is a clogged drain, you might think that the solution is a plunger.

While that may be true in some situations, there are instances where the powers of a plunger won’t stand a chance against clogged drains. This is especially true if the main sewer line gets clogged.

In times when the plunger needs backup, we strongly recommend that you have a professional handle it. However, there are techniques you can apply to temporarily mitigate the issue.

Prevent extensive flooding and severe plumbing issues in your home by learning how to clear a main sewer line clog yourself! Before we get started, let’s discuss what causes clogged sewer lines.

Common Causes of Clogged Sewer Lines

In the face of any problem, the first order of business is to identify the root cause of it all.

Main sewer line clogs are extremely seldom, as they only occur if a severe problem creeps up. To that end, one of the most typical causes of clog-related issues is if a sewer line bends or caves in. These circumstances are a sure-fire way to prevent waste traffic from moving through the pipe smoothly.

The most common causes of clogs include the following:

  • Corrosion
  • Shifting soil surrounding the lines
  • Damaged pipe joints
  • Heavy traffic in the vicinity of the sewer line
  • Debris accumulation due to pipe bends

 A plunger in a sink

How Does Debris Build Up in a Sewer Line?

If you are guilty of pouring fat, oil, or grease down the drain of your kitchen sink, you should know that this is one of the primary culprits in causing debris build-up. While they may be in liquid form, these stubborn substances ultimately cool and harden over time. As a result, the fat, oils, and grease cling to the sewer lines and end up causing clogs.

In other instances, paper towels could be the reason for sewer line clogs. This is why it is important to refrain from flushing wipes and other types of bulky items down the toilet.
Remember that only liquids and toilet paper are safe to be flushed down toilet drains.

When scum and piled up paper towels aren’t involved, debris could also be a result of tree roots that made their way into the sewer pipes.

If the root continuously grows inside the pipe, it’s only a matter of time before it gets big enough to hinder the sewage traffic.

How to Clear a Main Sewer Line Clog Yourself

As mentioned a moment ago, you will need the expertise of a professional plumber to effectively unclog a sewer line. But in the meantime, you can use these methods to momentarily alleviate the clog.

Remove the Cleanout Cap

Homes typically come with a sewer line cleanout component. This large pipe covered with a cap on one end is usually located in your basement or on the side of the house.

What you need to do is remove the cap in order to gain access to the main sewer line. If the odds are in your favour, you will find the clog pushed against the cleanout. If this is the case, you can pull it out yourself and your contractor will do the rest.

Use a Plumbing Auger

Plumbing augers can aid in reducing backflow. They can break up the clog a bit or help you pull out the debris. Keep in mind that neither of these quick fixes can replace the services of an expert. Only resort to them while you wait for the contractor to arrive.

 A clogged sink

Tackle the Clog at the Root

Keep your home’s plumbing system in mint condition with the help of 1st Rooter.

Our team of licensed professionals are specialized in solving all sorts of plumbing concerns, including main sewer line clogs. You won’t ever have to worry about learning how to clear a main sewer line clog yourself, because 1st Rooter is only a phone call away!

Contact us for more information on our reliable plumbing services.

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